The foreign exchange trap that is dynamic currency conversion

Whether you’re a frequent traveller or a lover of online shopping, you may or may not have heard of a sneaky tactic called ‘dynamic currency conversion’.

It’s a trick that could be costing you a bundle, but the worst part is, you’re doing it voluntarily.

In fact, a recent report by Citi revealed that dynamic currency conversion was one of the most common foreign exchange traps.

So what is it and what can Aussies do to make sure it doesn’t happen to them?

What is dynamic currency conversion?

Have you ever been given the option to make a purchase in Australian dollars rather than the local currency when on holidays?

If you chose to pay in AUD, your transaction would have been converted from the local currency into Aussie dollars - this is called dynamic currency conversion.

While making purchases in Aussie dollars may seem like the savvier way to pay to avoid a foreign exchange fee, in reality, you’ll still pay the fee (which can be anywhere between 1% - 3%), plus a ‘dynamic currency conversion fee’ that can be an additional 5% - 15% - meaning you could be charged an extra 18% in fees.

Is there any benefit to using dynamic currency conversion?

The only possible benefit to using dynamic currency conversion while on holiday is so that you know exactly how much you’re being charged each time you make a purchase*. This can come in handy if you’re trying to keep to a budget while overseas.

For example, say you came across of pair of shoes that cost US$150 while on holiday and you have a maximum travel budget of AUD $500. If you used dynamic currency conversion, you’d be able to see exactly how much you’re about to be charged for the shoes and know you how much you’ll have left over to spend.

What are the drawbacks to dynamic currency conversion?

Although dynamic currency conversion can be used to keep track of your spending overseas, in doing so you’ll be subjected to:

Poor exchange rates - Possibly the biggest drawback to currency conversion is the poor exchange rate you’ll get on purchases. The exchange rate is usually set by the merchant or if you’re withdrawing cash, an ATM operator and can be marked up by up to 15%.

Foreign transaction fees - And even though you’ll be making a purchase in Aussie dollars, your debit or credit card provider will still recognise this as a foreign transaction and charge a foreign exchange fee for every transaction you make.

Do online stores use dynamic currency conversion? 

This depends on the website, as some will choose to display the price in AUD but then charge your credit card in their local currency. Other sites will charge your credit card in Australian dollars. 

How can I avoid dynamic currency conversion?

That’s easy, when given the option to pay in Australian dollars, just say no. And if you want to keep on top of your spending on your next getaway, you might want to consider:

A prepaid travel card - If you’re someone who likes to travel on a budget, a prepaid travel card could be a top pick. With a prepaid travel card, you’ll be to choose the currencies that you plan to pay in, helping you keep track of your spending.

A travel debit card - Similar to a prepaid travel card, a travel debit card allows you to use your own money, so you won’t ever have to worry about spending money you don’t have.

A travel credit card - But if you prefer to earn a bonus while you travel, then a travel credit card could be your best bet. Many travel credit cards come with perks, like concierge service and free travel insurance - just be sure to choose a card that doesn’t come with a heavy foreign exchange fee.

Cash - Ah yes, good old cash. While carrying large quantities of cash isn’t the savviest way to get around, if you’re familiar with the local currency, it can help you keep track of your spending.

*This does not include the foreign exchange fees that your debit or credit card provider may charge.

So if you’re preparing for your next holiday and need a great travel money option, make your next stop our travel money hub or check out some travel money options below! 

4 great travel debit cards

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Last updated 15 October 2024 Important disclosures
  • Orange Everyday

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    Visa Debit

    The everyday bank account that could pay you for paying bills. Get 1% cashback on eligible utility bills (up to $100), $0 ING international transaction fees, and up to 5 rebated ATM withdrawals a month here or overseas (T&Cs apply) and no monthly fees to pay. Mozo Experts Choice Awards Everyday & Savings Bank of the Year winner for 2024.^

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  • Everyday Global Account

    $0.00

    Apple Pay, Google Wallet

    Visa Debit

    Enjoy $0 monthly account fees and international fees, with no minimum deposit or balance requirements. Buy, hold and spend in 10 currencies (AUD included) and earn 2% cashback for purchases under $100 (T&C’s apply). Mozo's Experts Choice 2024 winner for Exceptional Everyday Account.^

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  • Everyday Options Account

    $0.00

    Apple Pay, Google Wallet, PayID

    Visa Debit

    Enjoy 0% foreign currency conversion fees on Visa Debit card purchases. Plus make an eligible purchase using your linked Visa Debit card to earn cashback at participating merchants. $0 monthly account keeping fees & the option to open up to 9 sub-accounts. Suncorp Bank (Norfina Limited ABN 66 010 831 722 AFSL 229882 Australian Credit Licence 229882). The SUNCORP brand and Sun Logo are used by Suncorp Bank (Norfina Limited) under licence and Suncorp Bank is not part of the Suncorp Group.

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  • Glide Account

    $0.00

    Apple Pay, Google Wallet, PayID, Samsung Pay, Garmin Pay

    Visa Debit

    Unlimited free internet transactions. Super fast transfers & use Apple Pay, Google Pay and Samsung Pay. No account keeping fees. Access Any Major Bank & MyState Bank ATM Fee-Free.

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